On Feb. 12, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality will vote on the most drastic restrictions yet on the Colorado River's flow below Austin. We must do everything we can to prevent this unprecedented action. If approved, it will be even more burdensome to our rice farmers, and the health of the river itself, than anything proposed to date.

The Lower Colorado River Coalition, made up of public officials and interested parties below Austin, has issued a "Call to Arms." It is urging email letters to the following: